Distributed Audio System – Seamless Sound All Around

In the realm of home audio video control systems, a distributed audio system is like an orchestra conductor for your home, delivering customized, intuitive control of your sound from a single source. You can tailor the listening experience in each room or zone, from music to podcasts to streaming media, adjusting volume, sources, and even blocking sound where you want quiet. So you can enjoy festive tunes in the backyard while a podcast plays in the kitchen, then switch it up anytime with just a few taps. A distributed audio system design can be wired, wireless, or hybrid, giving you flexibility to enjoy high-quality sound throughout your home.

Imagine controlling the audio in every corner of your home, seamlessly adapting it to fit your mood, routine, or lifestyle. The benefits of home audio distribution systems are enviable, delivering control, convenience, and entertainment in one package.

Whole-Home Sound

A distributed audio system allows homeowners to control and play music or other audio throughout the house and outdoors using a single centralized system.

Zone Control

Rooms or “zones” can be created throughout the home to adjust what plays in each room, allowing for the same music everywhere or different sources in different rooms. Distributed audio also offers remote volume adjustment for each room or zone.

Clean, Built-In Design

Home audio distribution systems feature discreet speakers that can be hidden in ceilings, walls, or outdoors, eliminating the bulk and clutter of standalone speakers.

High-Quality Audio

Featuring centralized amplification and wiring, a distributed audio system design provides better sound quality than many wireless-only setups. That means clear, crisp audio throughout the home and outdoors.

Convenience & Automation

Enjoy complete system control from smartphones, tablets, wall panels, or voice assistants. Some systems also integrate with smart home automation for a more immersive experience.

Scalable & Flexible

Home audio distribution systems offer the flexibility of expansion over time, so homeowners can add new rooms, outdoor speakers, or streaming sources without redoing the core setup.

Reliable & Consistent

Both wired and hybrid distributed audio systems (i.e., a combination of wired and wireless systems) avoid sound interruptions caused by dropouts, which are common in purely WiFi or Bluetooth systems.

Increase Home Value

Professionally installed, whole-home audio distribution systems are often seen as a luxury feature, which can add value and appeal to any home.

In the past, the only option for distributed audio system installation was to hardwire the system into the home. However, bluetooth technology and smart home automation now afford alternative solutions, like wireless and hybrid whole-home audio.

Wired Systems

The OG, a hard-wired system, is still considered one of the best distributed audio system setups. They utilize a central amplifier or receiver that sends audio through speaker wires to in-wall, in-ceiling, or outdoor speakers. Wired distributed audio systems consistently offer higher sound quality and more sound reliability than wireless and hybrid systems. However, installation is complex, which is why these systems are better suited for new construction or renovations.

Wireless Systems

Wireless distributed audio systems use a centralized network, like WiFi, Bluetooth, or proprietary wireless protocols, to stream audio to wireless speakers or wireless-enabled amps. These systems can also work with in-wall or ceiling speakers with the right setup. Typically, that involves a wireless amplifier or streaming amp that connects to the speakers. The amp receives the audio signal over the wireless network, then powers the wired, built-in speakers.

With no wires, these systems are easier to install and more flexible. Systems can be controlled with apps, voice assistants, or smart home systems. They are also highly scalable.

Hybrid Systems

A hybrid distributed audio system design combines both wired and wireless speakers. Typically, the setup includes hard-wired speakers in central areas, like the kitchen, living room, or outdoors, and wireless speakers in secondary rooms, like an office or bedroom. With centralized control across wired and wireless zones, hybrid systems provide high-quality sound in main areas and flexibility in the others. These systems are ideal for larger homes or phased installations.

Planning home audio distribution systems takes the entire house into account during design. The first step is to create the desired “zones” for independent control of sound in each area. Each zone can play the same source as other areas or have its own music, podcast, or TV audio. The next step is speaker placement planning. The goal is to design even speaker placement to avoid hot spots, which makes the music feel balanced throughout. Amplifier placement is next, which is the heart of the system. Finally, everything ties together with a central control panel, which allows users to select zones, choose sources, and adjust the volume. Distributed audio system control panels can be in-wall keypads, touchscreens, or mobile apps. Homeowners can also integrate control with voice assistants or smart home automation platforms.

There are a number of factors to consider when it comes to selecting the best system for your home. Weighing each of these factors can help narrow down the decision-making process.

Number of Rooms, Home Size

The size of the home and the number of zones (or rooms) are key factors. For example, a wireless system can accommodate a small apartment with less square footage to cover. However, a larger home with more spaces and rooms likely needs a wired or hybrid system for more consistent coverage.

Budget

The budget is also a deciding factor. Wireless systems are often more affordable upfront, but the sound quality may suffer. Wired systems, on the other hand, may require a higher investment in equipment and installation, but they deliver greater reliability and quality. A hybrid system meets in the middle, balancing cost with performance.

Smart Home Compatibility

Homes with smart home automation, like intelligent lighting, climate control, or security, may prefer a system that integrates easily with platforms like Control4, Crestron, Alexa, or Google Home for seamless control.

Installation largely depends on the type of system. Wireless distributed audio systems are fairly simple and often suitable for DIY setup. However, wiring speakers with hybrid or wired systems introduces more complexity, like running cables, integrating amplifiers, and positioning built-in speakers, which makes them much more complex.

In these cases, opting for a professional audio distribution system installation ensures a cleaner finish with hidden wiring and discreet speaker placement. Professional installers understand optimal speaker orientation and how to configure amplifiers and control systems properly. They also provide system training so homeowners can feel confident using their system.

A professionally designed and installed home audio distribution system by MIR Audio Video ensures seamless, high-quality sound throughout your home and yard. For decades, we’ve been expertly installing exceptional audio and video solutions in homes and businesses across Los Angeles, including happy clients like the Los Angeles Lakers, the Los Angeles Clippers, and the Academy Awards. We promise professional service and expert installation, ensuring every detail is handled with precision and care.